I am a complete beginner, but learned a few things that might help others who are interested in the machine.

There are three main kinds of vinyl that I use. One is the temporary, non-permanent vinyl. This can be used on things that won't be washed, and can be easily removed. I created some quotes on my classroom white boards and windows. I also used this vinyl to embellish notebooks, decorated wood, etc. This is the only type of vinyl that I could find at craft stores.

The second type of vinyl is permanent (outdoor) vinyl. I used this for kitchenware that needs to be washed. My glasses were washed many times in the dishwasher. I also used it on the holiday platters below.

The third type is heat transfer vinyl. Although not difficult, this is the trickiest vinyl to work with. I used it on the baby bloomers and apron below. I used my household iron to make these, but many people have a iron press for this purpose. You can wash these items in the washing machine, but I recommend hanging up to dry. Once again, I watched amazing You Tube videos to help me learn this technique.

In addition to vinyl, you will need vinyl transfer tape, which comes in a roll. The videos by Silhouette will show you what to do step by step. I purchased all of my vinyl and transfer tape from Amazon.

You will need a laptop or computer to hook up to the machine. My machine came with a CD. Just plug it all in!

Here are a few of my latest projects. Of course I had to embellish my actual machine!

I bought these clear large coffee mugs from a dollar store nearby.

Holiday Platters using the Silhouette Store images

I saw these cuff bracelets at high end stores and immediately tried to do them myself!

White baby bloomers, perfect for a new Texas mom!

I decorated about 10 of these awesome totes this season. They're perfect for any age!

Saturday, May 30, 2015

A fun swap with my fellow Texas art friend Kristi! I decorated a vintage jewelry box with laces and ribbons. I tried out my new Brother SE Embroidery machine for the first time and made the pillow, small notebook cover and name tag.

I filled the drawers with vintage goodies, perfect for mixed media art.

Monday, December 22, 2014

I've seen natural lotion bars in many boutiques lately. After searching on Pinterest and Stampington magazines, I decided to give them a try! I've used Altoid Tins in the past for containers. They work beautifully.

These "Lotion Bars" were really simple to make! I combined equal parts natural bee's wax (sold by the pound on Amazon) and coconut oil (in solid form at Trader Joe's). Simply microwave both ingredients and stir until liquid is smooth. Add generous drops of peppermint organic extract. Pour into painted Altoid tins. Let cool. Cover tins with burlap and flowers. Add a slip of scrapbook paper inside and a label describing the bar.

I gave these as gifts to my kindergarten teachers and office staff this year. The container is perfect to keep on their desks for a little boost during the day. They loved them!